Austin Fun: Country Legends, Women’s Rights, And So Much Soul

With cooler weather and the smell of fall in the air, outdoor concerts are just the ticket for Austinites who have been yearning to hear their music under the stars. This weekend, it’s all about modern bluegrass, outlaw country, old-school blues, and classic songwriting.

From a country legend’s birthday party to a thoroughly modern take on blues, soul, and roots music, these are the events and artists that will get you moving this weekend.

Two of the hottest topics on everyone’s mind in our city this year are reproductive justice for women and, of course, live music. “V to Shining V” combines both this weekend in an effort to support the fight for women’s healthcare in Texas and across the country. Hosted by Lizz Winstead, comedian and creator of “The Daily Show,” the event will feature some of the best and most socially conscious bands in town, including Elizabeth McQueen, Magna Carda, Nakia, and Burgess Meredith. Also highlighting the evening will be comedy from Maggie Maye, Julie Gillis, and Austin.com’s own Daniel Webb.

Kenny Dorham’s Backyard has long been Austin’s beloved home for all things jazz, blues, and soul. This weekend, DiverseArts Culture Works continues another season of East End Fourth Fridays with the Ortega Elementary SuperStar Band, an under 18 group dedicated to performing African American spirituals around Austin. Also featured on the line-up will be The EastSide Blues Syndicate, one of the most interesting and eclectic groups to come out of the city, with its sizzling mix of soul, Latin percussion, and old-school blues, as well as The Blues Posse, who take classic Blues and turn it on its ear. Part block party, part outdoor concert, this series is an Austin staple that keeps Austin’s East Side cool.

Check out this video of East Side Blues Syndicate performing “You’re Gonna Miss Me”…

With their revolutionary take on roots music, Whiskey Shivers are an Austin darling. From their unbelievably popular tune “Gimme All Your Lovin,” which featured their signature washboard, fiddle, and guitar, to their beautifully haunting Appalachian-inspired song “Jealous Heart,” the addictive rhythms of Whiskey Shivers have earned them a dedicated following. This Friday, they will release their new self-titled album at The Historic Scoot Inn, the perfect venue for this bluegrass band with an edge. Get ready for a high-octane, old-fashioned good time at one of Austin’s truly iconic venues.

Meanwhile, watch this video of Whiskey Shivers performing their song “Jealous Heart”…

Billy Joe Shaver, one of the only musicians who can still stand toe-to-toe with legends like Waylon Jennings, Johnny Cash, and Bob Dylan, will celebrate his 75th Birthday this weekend at The Paramount, one of Austin’s most-loved theaters. Billy Joe will play along with modern day stars including Ray Wylie Hubbard, James McMurtry, and Joe Pug. After the party, he will hit the road on a tour through Texas, Tennessee, North Carolina, and Ohio to promote his new album, “Long in the Tooth.” This will be a night to remember, so make sure to catch this legend while you can.

Here’s a video of Shaver performing “Old Five and Dimers Like Me” at Austin City Limits in 1984:

Now in its second year, The Soul of a Musician Series is one of Austin’s true gems, featuring music and conversations with some of our city’s most talented artists. This weekend features beloved singer/songwriter and star on The Voice, Suzanna Choffel. With her beautiful voice, Choffel is a favorite here in town, and after her brief move to NYC, we are lucky to have her back in our city again. Featured on Balcony TV and at some of Austin’s hottest venues, Meggan Carney has an incredible range that pairs perfectly with her co-star for the evening.